Friday, August 16, 2013

Sequoia

Sequoia offers eclectic American cuisine in Georgetown coupled with enchanting views of nearby Kennedy Center, the Watergate Hotel and the Potomac River. The floor to ceiling windows allow plenty of light indoors, and a large three-tier patio is also available for seating outdoors. The atmosphere is fun and laid back with a mesquite wood fire grill, sensational drinks, and their renowned River Bar. Closest Metro is Foggy Bottom.

It was a gorgeous summer evening and just so happened to be "National Rum Day," so I was eager to eat out somewhere that we could enjoy the weather and have a couple of cocktails. Keith suggested we head out to Georgetown and I agreed. We arrived around 6:40pm and the crowds were already starting to form near the docks and all along the waterside walkway. We got a nice table outside overlooking the water - this was my view:

First, we ordered drinks. Keith ordered a regular Mojito and I chose the Strawberry Caipirinha since the server hinted that it was sweet and strong. He was right - my drink was super sweet from the sugary cachaça and the added strawberries. But it was refreshing and summery and I finished the whole thing. I wasn't really in the mood for a large entree, so I ordered a couple appetizers to graze. I love drinking and grazing while people watching, don't you?

First up, I ate the Spicy Tuna Tartare that was 4 oz. of chopped tuna with wasabi aioli and avocado, layered between a wonton chip and sushi rice. While the tuna had nice flavor, I thought the rice mellowed out the spice factor too much and was a bit overkill. Keith didn't mind the rice and actually appreciated the starch alternative to the typical bread or chips. Next, I ate Grilled Octopus that was very tender and very reminiscent of what I've had in Spain. Here the octopus was marinated with oregano, thyme, lemon, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and parsley and then served with cherry tomatoes, roasted fingerling potatoes, and a roasted red pepper vinaigrette. The warm dish was a nice portion and perfect for sharing. Lastly, we shared the Sequoia Charcutterie Plate that came with prosciutto, milano, duck & chicken pâté, manchego, smoked gouda,
strawberries, grapes, and raisin bread crostini. The prosciutto was thickly cut and little too fatty for my liking. The milano was similar to salami and went very well with the cheeses and fruit. Though not the best charcuterie plate I've had, it rounded out my meal perfectly.

Additionally, Keith order a half dozen oysters for himself, naturally. These slurpers were fresh Chincoteague from James River. He also ordered the Crab Cake Sandwich that was standard with lettuce, tomato, onions, avocado, and a jalapeno tartar sauce served with French fries. Unfortunately, the crab cake was pretty mushy and comparable to a "fish sandwich" one would order from a fast food joint. After one bite, he immediately regretted ordering it. Oh well - nothing another round of mojitos can't fix!

If you are looking for a casual place for seafood, drinks, and an amazing view in Georgetown, then Sequoia is the place. Be warned that the prices are bit steep and it can get crowded with bar hoppers, but is still an enjoyable place for the view alone - especially if you can catch the sunset.